Hospital: Ex-Israeli PM Ariel Sharon in 'grave condition'

The hospital treating former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon said he was in "grave condition" Thursday and his health is worsening.

This file photo shows former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon at his office in Jerusalem on Jan. 4, 2006. Admired by some and reviled by others, Sharon's health is failing eight years after he suffered a massive stroke. (ELIANA APONTE/AFP/Getty Images)

The health of former Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon worsened on Thursday, hospital officials said, describing him as being in "grave condition."

"Over the past hours, there has been a worsening of the condition of former prime minister Ariel Sharon. His condition is described as extremely critical and his family is at his side all the time," said a statement from Sheba hospital near Tel Aviv where he is being treated.